Starting a Business?

What is a Business License?

A business license is simply a business tax registration certificate issued / filed by the state, county or city in which the business in question is located. You need to obtain it if you are starting any type of business.

Who Needs A Business License?

Regardless of the profession you are in; even if your business is an online internet business, a home based business, a handy man business or an outdoor vendor business; you are required to get a business license.

Where do you to get a Business License?

You will need to apply for three licenses. Start with the state of Florida (FDBPR). After applying with the state, go to the Polk County office in Bartow, FL and apply for the county license. Once you have successfully applied for both licenses then apply with Haines City for the city license:
Florida Dept. of Business & Professional Regulation
#(850) 487-1395/ Fax: (850) 488-1830
www.myflorida.com/dbpr

Polk County Occupational Licensing
(863) 534-4731

Haines City Occupational Licensing
(863) 421-3610

Frequently Asked Questions
As you are rushing to get all of your requirements filled to start your business you might have a few questions that we can answer!

Need guidance or help on the how to’s Call:
Small Business Development Center:(863) 534-2503
Classes
Consultations
Professional Services
Business Plans
Certifications

City of Haines City (Services): (863) 421-3600
502 Hinson Ave., Haines City, FL
Water, Sewer, Garbage

Building/Permitting:(863)419-3229
Planning/Zoning:(863)419-3230
Bright House (cable/phone): (863)965-7766
Verizon (phone): (863)687-8400
Progress Energy (Power):(863)678-4449
Central Fl. Gas-(Natural Gas):(863)293-2125
Tax Collector’s Office
Property taxes- (863) 298-7578
Occupational License Tax- (863)298-7579

Other Business Resources
Central Florida Development Council
600 North Broadway, Ste. 300
Bartow, FL 33830
#(863) 534-2525
www.cfdc.org

Haines City EDC
611 Jones Avenue E., Suite 4
Haines City, FL 33844
#(863) 422-2525

Haines City Main Street
PO Box 1507
Haines City, FL 33845
#(863) 421-9950

Keep Polk County Beautiful
1252 Golfview Avenue
Bartow, FL 33830
#(863) 533-8423